Yes, you are eligible for SSDI but only if you can't perform any job.  I'm a Human Resources person and have SSDI but not for AS.  

You can certainly apply for SSDI (go to ssa.gov) but make sure you have the 100% support of your doctors.  If denied, you can hire an attorney on contingency to fight it.  You must appeal within 60 days of the denial.

I'll be glad to help if you have more questions.

I was working as a Vet Nurse and was twice injured on the job.  Workman's Comp paid for my 3 sets of total knee replacements and two torn rotator cuff repairs.  I woke up from my 3rd set of knees screaming in pain and not because of my knees.  My right foot was on fire.  Nerve damage, can't feel it anymore, so now I have a drop foot and wear a brace. All told, I have had over 20 surgeries and when the doctors involved declared me so over the top disabled...I applied for SSDI.  I was refused.  I applied again...refused.  Now, I'm no spring chicken and my medical files are pretty dang big.  Hired an atty - in GA you can't go for a hearing without one- and when I walked in, the judge asked me a few questions...I began answering..he stopped me half way thru and simply said; stop, you've got it. Yippee.The only thing that is awful is that it takes forever to get a hearing date.  I contacted my  Congressman and his office moved mountains for me!

Depending on your age you will just about be denied the first 2 times automatically.  I have had both those denials and I am getting ready for my hearing now.  That is when most of the cases are approved.  I suggest a lawyer from the very beginning.  The stress of the paper work and not knowing how the system works can be challenging.  I have Binder and Binder out of New York.  They have really been excellent for me.  They don't get paid unless they can win it for you.  Also there is alot of info online.  There is a site called DisabilitySecrets and if you google Ankylosing Spondylitis and SSD you will find alot of information.

I am starting my SSDI case this Friday. The paperwork that I filled out online mentioned asked if I was making meaningful income or something like that. The amount was like $1000.00 per month if your not blind and $1600.00 if you are blind. I also know someone on disability that is permitted to work up to 20 hours per week before her benefits will be taken from her. That and what everyone else said above is pretty much true.

Hi Janet
Usually those that apply that are under the magic 50 number will be denied on the grounds that they can be trained to work in another job. The first 2 denials will come from your state disability board, not SS. It is a long drawn out affair for most of us. I am waiting for my judicial hearing to my third appeal, I've been denied twice. I would highly recommend getting together with an attorney or a company such as Alsup early in the process. Be sure that your doctors are on board with you, and make certain that you can financially take the hit of a long wait to get your approval. Also know how and when your health insurance will run out so that you can start the process for Medicaid to fill in while you are waiting for SSDI and then your Medicare.

Good Luck!!

I have also applied. Am in the "waiting" loop. Figuring on being denied. That's okay, for now. I've got the ball rolling, so to speak! Great answers, lots of valuable information! Thanks!!

SSA Disability Mission Statement
DELAY DENY UNTIL THEY DIE

About 80% of all applicants are initially denied.  Talk to a disability attorney.  They should only take a case if they think you will qualify.  That being said, they still have to fight for your benefits.

If you don't mind me asking- why were you denied?  The level of pain alone I would think make AS patients eligible- not to mention the heavy medications etc.

I have applied for it and just recently got denied, but am going to get a lawyer and have him fight for me.